The energy regulator Ofgem has set out plans to "break the stranglehold of the big six energy suppliers".

The measures require large suppliers and generators to trade fairly with smaller players or face cash penalties.

Centrica (British Gas), E.ON, SSE, Npower, EDF and ScottishPower will also have to post the prices at which they will buy and sell electricity up to two years in advance.

Ofgem says it will increase competition in the wholesale energy market.

The six companies generate 80% of Britain's electricity and supply around 95% of it to their customers.

"Ofgem's proposals will break the stranglehold of the big six in the retail market," said Andrew Wright, senior partner for markets at the regulator.

He added that they should also "create a more level playing field for independent suppliers, who will get a fair deal when they want to buy and sell power up to two years ahead".

Probably would have been better if they'd done a proper job in the first place, rather than now proclaiming about how they're going to clear up the mess that resulted from them not doing so.